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The Teachings of Shirelle: Life Lessons from a Divine Knucklehead
“Relish the day. If you’re not in awe, you’re just not paying attention.”
She hadn’t even been in the crowded pound a week, but she’d already developed a nickname, “Knucklehead.” As a puppy she destroyed property and precious clothes; as an adult she injured her owner, ruined romances… and changed the world-views of those around her.
Have you ever watched an animal and wondered how it thinks, how it sees the world, how it views you? And have you ever wondered what wisdom you might learn if you could see things as that animal does?
This unique book is many things: an amusing and moving memoir about a memorable dog, a poetic ode to a human-animal connection, and a serious philosophical, psychological, and spiritual inquiry into the lessons a man gleaned from the simple-minded brilliance of a teacher, a lover, a liver of life to the fullest… a Knucklehead.
There has never before been a book like "The Teachings of Shirelle." Take a walk with this pooch, and you might never look at life, love, or yourself the same again.
She hadn’t even been in the crowded pound a week, but she’d already developed a nickname, “Knucklehead.” As a puppy she destroyed property and precious clothes; as an adult she injured her owner, ruined romances… and changed the world-views of those around her.
Have you ever watched an animal and wondered how it thinks, how it sees the world, how it views you? And have you ever wondered what wisdom you might learn if you could see things as that animal does?
This unique book is many things: an amusing and moving memoir about a memorable dog, a poetic ode to a human-animal connection, and a serious philosophical, psychological, and spiritual inquiry into the lessons a man gleaned from the simple-minded brilliance of a teacher, a lover, a liver of life to the fullest… a Knucklehead.
There has never before been a book like "The Teachings of Shirelle." Take a walk with this pooch, and you might never look at life, love, or yourself the same again.
179 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 17, 2015
5 people are currently reading
379 people want to read
About the author
Douglas Green
2 books20 followersDouglas Green is a psychotherapist working in private practice in Los Angeles, specializing in helping kids and teens build lives they can be proud of.
Doug grew up in Kansas City, and has lived in Connecticut and Australia. For over twenty years, he worked in the entertainment world, as a writer, director, producer, editor, actor, assistant director, even truck driver. Plays he wrote and directed have won multiple awards, and he has numerous shorts, ads, and music videos, to his name. In 2000, he released the feature film The Hiding Place, starring Kim Hunter and Timothy Bottoms – a searing look at the effects of Dementia on a family – which has been shown around the world and written up in journals as diverse as Variety and Playboy.
As a writer, Doug has had articles published in the psychological journals Progress, The Therapist, and Connections. He also created, writes, and manages the website www.AskShirelle.com, which gives advice - not from his viewpoint, but from that of a hyperactive, over-eager mutt.
Speaking of whom, the concepts behind the website stem from his upcoming book The Teachings of Shirelle – Life Lessons from a Divine Knucklehead, set for release in November, 2015.
Doug grew up in Kansas City, and has lived in Connecticut and Australia. For over twenty years, he worked in the entertainment world, as a writer, director, producer, editor, actor, assistant director, even truck driver. Plays he wrote and directed have won multiple awards, and he has numerous shorts, ads, and music videos, to his name. In 2000, he released the feature film The Hiding Place, starring Kim Hunter and Timothy Bottoms – a searing look at the effects of Dementia on a family – which has been shown around the world and written up in journals as diverse as Variety and Playboy.
As a writer, Doug has had articles published in the psychological journals Progress, The Therapist, and Connections. He also created, writes, and manages the website www.AskShirelle.com, which gives advice - not from his viewpoint, but from that of a hyperactive, over-eager mutt.
Speaking of whom, the concepts behind the website stem from his upcoming book The Teachings of Shirelle – Life Lessons from a Divine Knucklehead, set for release in November, 2015.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
February 23, 2016
MY BLOG: Melissa Martin's Reading List
This book just broke my heart. It's such a touching and funny story of a man and the dog he rescued as a pup right before she was doomed to be put down.
The story of their lives together is filled with fun, anger, love and many.. what the.. moments.
Shirelle was so funny and sweet and crazy all in one. She learns like they all do how to do things the right way and how to do what she wants. She was a great companion in therapy just by knowing what each patient needed from her. She was another brilliant soul and did nothing but give undying love to her person just like all wonderful doggers do.
This story is also sad, it just about killed me what she had to go through. It brought back sad, crying memories of what my own dog and son Dakota went through, but not as long and not as bad as Shirelle. Shirelle was a fighter until she couldn't fight any more.
I love how the author wrote out the different things he learned through Shirelle, to use in the real world.
God bless all of the wonderful dogs and any other animals in all of our lives that love us unconditionally. We are all given a privilege if we are allowed to love all of these wonderful animals.
Fin
*I would like to thank NETGALLEY and SMITH PUBLICITY for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.*
This book just broke my heart. It's such a touching and funny story of a man and the dog he rescued as a pup right before she was doomed to be put down.
The story of their lives together is filled with fun, anger, love and many.. what the.. moments.
Shirelle was so funny and sweet and crazy all in one. She learns like they all do how to do things the right way and how to do what she wants. She was a great companion in therapy just by knowing what each patient needed from her. She was another brilliant soul and did nothing but give undying love to her person just like all wonderful doggers do.
This story is also sad, it just about killed me what she had to go through. It brought back sad, crying memories of what my own dog and son Dakota went through, but not as long and not as bad as Shirelle. Shirelle was a fighter until she couldn't fight any more.
I love how the author wrote out the different things he learned through Shirelle, to use in the real world.
God bless all of the wonderful dogs and any other animals in all of our lives that love us unconditionally. We are all given a privilege if we are allowed to love all of these wonderful animals.
Fin
*I would like to thank NETGALLEY and SMITH PUBLICITY for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.*
June 24, 2024
Knucklehead:
All heart. No brain.
This was another one where the title got me – smack dab in my heart. I was instantly flooded with memories of our own divine knucklehead, our sweet, adorable, lovable, kooky, dorky, carefree, knucklehead (the last one actually being his nickname); our beloved Joie (pronounced Joey). Hubby and I were so fortunate to have spent nearly 10yrs living with that amazing creature and spending everyday loving our precious knucklehead.
The book summary pretty much lays out the whole story. The author, Douglas Green, spent 12yrs with an amazing knucklehead who taught him so much about life, love, loss, and moving on. So many times, Shirelle saw him through bad break-ups, job losses, stagnant periods of his career in the entertainment industry, along with all the depression, self-doubt and frustration that comes with the ups and downs of a life lived. So many of the Shirelle stories had me laughing one minute and crying the next. So many times, I felt Green’s pride, desperation, irritation, and joy in his being witness to the life of his amazing and beautiful Shirelle.
The hardest part of loving and caring for a fur baby is that we are much more likely to outlive them than the other way around. So many of us will do whatever is necessary to prolong our fur baby’s life as well as making the end as comfortable and as painless as possible. It’s a hard decision to know when it’s become time to just enjoy whatever time we have left with them.
So many stories reminded me of some of my own fur babies, especially our own knucklehead, Joie. Especially the escape stories (uuuggghhh!!!) of being driven absolutely crazy with worry. Green illustrates the precious moments where many of us doggie parents are fortunate enough to experience true connection and pure bonding with our fur babies as well as the utter and sheer amazement at being the recipient of their love, loyalty, and devotion.
Even now, as I sit here writing this review, I’m having a hard time keeping it together. Like all non-fiction stories, I will be rating it on only the material provided and the way in which it was provided. I’m looking at an overall rating of 4.25 that I will be rounding down to a 4star rating. I want to thank NetGalley and Mindbuck Media for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #MindbuckMedia #TheTeachingsofShirelle
This was another one where the title got me – smack dab in my heart. I was instantly flooded with memories of our own divine knucklehead, our sweet, adorable, lovable, kooky, dorky, carefree, knucklehead (the last one actually being his nickname); our beloved Joie (pronounced Joey). Hubby and I were so fortunate to have spent nearly 10yrs living with that amazing creature and spending everyday loving our precious knucklehead.
The book summary pretty much lays out the whole story. The author, Douglas Green, spent 12yrs with an amazing knucklehead who taught him so much about life, love, loss, and moving on. So many times, Shirelle saw him through bad break-ups, job losses, stagnant periods of his career in the entertainment industry, along with all the depression, self-doubt and frustration that comes with the ups and downs of a life lived. So many of the Shirelle stories had me laughing one minute and crying the next. So many times, I felt Green’s pride, desperation, irritation, and joy in his being witness to the life of his amazing and beautiful Shirelle.
The hardest part of loving and caring for a fur baby is that we are much more likely to outlive them than the other way around. So many of us will do whatever is necessary to prolong our fur baby’s life as well as making the end as comfortable and as painless as possible. It’s a hard decision to know when it’s become time to just enjoy whatever time we have left with them.
So many stories reminded me of some of my own fur babies, especially our own knucklehead, Joie. Especially the escape stories (uuuggghhh!!!) of being driven absolutely crazy with worry. Green illustrates the precious moments where many of us doggie parents are fortunate enough to experience true connection and pure bonding with our fur babies as well as the utter and sheer amazement at being the recipient of their love, loyalty, and devotion.
Even now, as I sit here writing this review, I’m having a hard time keeping it together. Like all non-fiction stories, I will be rating it on only the material provided and the way in which it was provided. I’m looking at an overall rating of 4.25 that I will be rounding down to a 4star rating. I want to thank NetGalley and Mindbuck Media for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #MindbuckMedia #TheTeachingsofShirelle
September 22, 2015
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
...and I'm glad I did, because if you're a dog lover, which I am, it's a goody. Doug, the author, was blessed to have the love of his life, his dog Shirelle, share his life with him for over a decade -- what a lucky man. She was a handful at times, but also a constant source of joy and enlightenment to him. This book could've been subtitled, "Zen and the Art of Learning to Fully Live Life, as Taught by Your Pet." Less a straightforward story about Shirelle, and more about how Doug's life was changed by Shirelle's sharing it with him, it is told chronologically, but there are many side stories to illustrate his points. It was as if Shirelle was his life coach in many ways. The reader will laugh, cry, smile frequently, and most of all wish for a pet like this sweet and feisty pound pup, unless you already are fortunate enough to have one -- in which case, looking into its eyes from now on might take on a whole new depth of meaning for you. Well done.
...and I'm glad I did, because if you're a dog lover, which I am, it's a goody. Doug, the author, was blessed to have the love of his life, his dog Shirelle, share his life with him for over a decade -- what a lucky man. She was a handful at times, but also a constant source of joy and enlightenment to him. This book could've been subtitled, "Zen and the Art of Learning to Fully Live Life, as Taught by Your Pet." Less a straightforward story about Shirelle, and more about how Doug's life was changed by Shirelle's sharing it with him, it is told chronologically, but there are many side stories to illustrate his points. It was as if Shirelle was his life coach in many ways. The reader will laugh, cry, smile frequently, and most of all wish for a pet like this sweet and feisty pound pup, unless you already are fortunate enough to have one -- in which case, looking into its eyes from now on might take on a whole new depth of meaning for you. Well done.
September 30, 2019
I received this book from the author/publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
But she was what all truly loved dogs are: She was, to someone, the best thing ever
This is a sweet memoir about a dog called Shirelle and all the lovely lessons she taught her human companion during her life.
This was a sweet book and while I don't think I got all the life lessons the author probably wanted me to from the text, I did just enjoy reading about a man who really, really loved his dog and who was his dog's world in return. The relationship between Shirelle and Douglas bordered more on life partner more so than parent/child the way you see in other dog/owner relationships and I like how much of a treasured yet respected companion Shirelle was in Douglas's life.
There were parts of this book that definitely bordered on tangents for me, and I did find myself wanting to skim through these parts before we got back to Shirelle and what she was doing at the time. I will say as well, I didn't really like how Douglas talked about the women in his life - I understand why he chose not to mention any of them by name but the way he used 'she' or 'her' rubbed me up the wrong way and I definitely would have preferred pseudonyms.
I did connect a good bit at the end of this book as Shirelle got older and little ailments began to affect her a bit more. As the owner of two aging dogs (16 and 11), I definitely understand the terrifying dilemma right now of a dog owner who isn't sure of when to draw the line between helping a dog and being selfish because I always need them around. Probably a part I'd recommend keeping some tissues beside you.
But she was what all truly loved dogs are: She was, to someone, the best thing ever
This is a sweet memoir about a dog called Shirelle and all the lovely lessons she taught her human companion during her life.
This was a sweet book and while I don't think I got all the life lessons the author probably wanted me to from the text, I did just enjoy reading about a man who really, really loved his dog and who was his dog's world in return. The relationship between Shirelle and Douglas bordered more on life partner more so than parent/child the way you see in other dog/owner relationships and I like how much of a treasured yet respected companion Shirelle was in Douglas's life.
There were parts of this book that definitely bordered on tangents for me, and I did find myself wanting to skim through these parts before we got back to Shirelle and what she was doing at the time. I will say as well, I didn't really like how Douglas talked about the women in his life - I understand why he chose not to mention any of them by name but the way he used 'she' or 'her' rubbed me up the wrong way and I definitely would have preferred pseudonyms.
I did connect a good bit at the end of this book as Shirelle got older and little ailments began to affect her a bit more. As the owner of two aging dogs (16 and 11), I definitely understand the terrifying dilemma right now of a dog owner who isn't sure of when to draw the line between helping a dog and being selfish because I always need them around. Probably a part I'd recommend keeping some tissues beside you.
December 12, 2015
I don't generally like memoirs or autobiography-like books so I tend to avoid them. But this one was about the lessons a dog can teach us so I was very willing to read it.
When I first started reading it, I quickly became annoyed by the ignorance the author was showing towards dog behaviour and dog training. I stopped reading it and continued the next day. Then I realised, during this short break that I took from the book, that I was reading it all wrong!
I was paying way too much attention to what is proper training and not to what the story was about. I was using, as Shirelle tought me later, my brain to read this book while I should have been using my heart. Why does it matter if Shirelle was not the best behaving dog on the planet? Why does it matter that she most of the times was annoying? What matters is that this dog was the perfect companion for this author. And he was so amazed by what Shirelle had to teach him that he wanted to share the teachings of Shirelle with us.
I especially appreciated the honesty of the author in this memoir. He is not ashamed to share some very personal moments of failure and he remained sincere throughout the story. This is not a fictional story; there is no perfect bittersweet ending. But I do appreciate the imperfections because life is not perfect.
Another aspect of the book that I really enjoyed was the true love and companionship that Green expressed to us, the readers, about his dog. It makes me very happy when people get to experience this level of connection with another animal and are not ashamed to share it with others. Green is not afraid to explain that Shirelle was one of the most important things in his life.
I liked the philosophies that the author was sharing throughout the book, even if I didn't agree with all of them. You can't always agree with everything after all. But some quotes are very powerful. Even if you want, you can't lie to dogs. Dogs are instinctual and they have a really powerful instinct. They see right through us, they know how we feel even when we don't.
Living in the moment! A very big lesson.
I didn't expect to like this memoir so much. If you like dogs or if you are thinking about getting a dog or if you have a dog that is a knucklehead (like most of them are) read this book. Even if you start reading The Teachings of Shirelle: Life Lessons from a Divine Knucklehead with your brain like I did, Shirelle will definitely show you how to continue with your heart.
When I first started reading it, I quickly became annoyed by the ignorance the author was showing towards dog behaviour and dog training. I stopped reading it and continued the next day. Then I realised, during this short break that I took from the book, that I was reading it all wrong!
I was paying way too much attention to what is proper training and not to what the story was about. I was using, as Shirelle tought me later, my brain to read this book while I should have been using my heart. Why does it matter if Shirelle was not the best behaving dog on the planet? Why does it matter that she most of the times was annoying? What matters is that this dog was the perfect companion for this author. And he was so amazed by what Shirelle had to teach him that he wanted to share the teachings of Shirelle with us.
I especially appreciated the honesty of the author in this memoir. He is not ashamed to share some very personal moments of failure and he remained sincere throughout the story. This is not a fictional story; there is no perfect bittersweet ending. But I do appreciate the imperfections because life is not perfect.
Another aspect of the book that I really enjoyed was the true love and companionship that Green expressed to us, the readers, about his dog. It makes me very happy when people get to experience this level of connection with another animal and are not ashamed to share it with others. Green is not afraid to explain that Shirelle was one of the most important things in his life.
You see, here's the bitter fact about dogs. We can trust them in ways we can't trust other people, because we know they can't lie. And they love and trust us equally, because they don't understand that we can.
I liked the philosophies that the author was sharing throughout the book, even if I didn't agree with all of them. You can't always agree with everything after all. But some quotes are very powerful. Even if you want, you can't lie to dogs. Dogs are instinctual and they have a really powerful instinct. They see right through us, they know how we feel even when we don't.
How would it feel to be passionate about everything? To, instead of sighing, "I haven't accomplished anything today," exult, "There's so much I want to do!"
Living in the moment! A very big lesson.
I didn't expect to like this memoir so much. If you like dogs or if you are thinking about getting a dog or if you have a dog that is a knucklehead (like most of them are) read this book. Even if you start reading The Teachings of Shirelle: Life Lessons from a Divine Knucklehead with your brain like I did, Shirelle will definitely show you how to continue with your heart.
February 16, 2017
I received a copy via netgalley.
I'm going to admit I'm a sucker for a dog story. I love going to the park and talking to other dog owners about there dogs, I especially loved working at a vet clinic and hearing all these various stories from other good to bad and sometimes sad. My heart will always belong to paws. I thought this to be a many emotion level book, the writing might've needed a bit more focus so it wasn't so scattered brained at times but other then that I took it for just as it was a man talking about his lovely dog. Easily a 3.5 star read, it's a nice light read.
I'm going to admit I'm a sucker for a dog story. I love going to the park and talking to other dog owners about there dogs, I especially loved working at a vet clinic and hearing all these various stories from other good to bad and sometimes sad. My heart will always belong to paws. I thought this to be a many emotion level book, the writing might've needed a bit more focus so it wasn't so scattered brained at times but other then that I took it for just as it was a man talking about his lovely dog. Easily a 3.5 star read, it's a nice light read.
May 5, 2024
*****I received this ARC free from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
I chose this book as it had a dog on the cover that looks SO much like the current furry love in my life. I had all the feels during this book. I literally laughed out loud snd shed tears. The lessons Doug learned were very relatable. How he did everything he could for his beautiful girl is exactly how I am with my adopted fur babies. A beautiful, amazing read!!
I chose this book as it had a dog on the cover that looks SO much like the current furry love in my life. I had all the feels during this book. I literally laughed out loud snd shed tears. The lessons Doug learned were very relatable. How he did everything he could for his beautiful girl is exactly how I am with my adopted fur babies. A beautiful, amazing read!!
October 18, 2015
I received a copy for review.
The Shirelle stories are cute and show how much he truly loves his dog. The rest seems detached and more like filler than anything else. He lost me quite a bit when he started talking about taking Shirelle for acupuncture.
Read it for Shirelle, skip all the extra.
The Shirelle stories are cute and show how much he truly loves his dog. The rest seems detached and more like filler than anything else. He lost me quite a bit when he started talking about taking Shirelle for acupuncture.
Read it for Shirelle, skip all the extra.
October 3, 2025
“She wasn’t the smartest dog who ever lived…”
This is a love story, from a man to his dog, and it is absolutely heartbreaking.
The story of Douglas Green and his dog, Shirelle, feels raw and real. It’s filled with love, frustration, joy, sadness, and so many relatable moments that every dog lover will recognize.
Shirelle is funny, chaotic, sweet, and stubborn, the epitome of a lovable, slightly clueless dog with nothing but love to give. As someone who also owns a not-so-smart but endlessly loving dog, I truly appreciated the blank stares, the tail wags born of pure confusion, and the energy that sends them leaping into (or onto) everything.
What I loved most about this book was how it showcased life lessons throughout. Through heartbreaks, job losses, depression, and moments of self-doubt, Shirelle was always there, tail wagging, grounding her person. The writing is heartfelt and honest, so much so that I could feel Green’s love, pride, and occasional exasperation with his companion.
One of the hardest truths of loving a pet is knowing our lives will almost certainly outlast theirs. It’s a painful inevitability, but it never diminishes the joy, the laughter, or the countless memories they give us. We all grieve differently. Some hold quiet funerals; others, like me, carry a tribute in ink on their skin. However we choose to remember them, that pain is always a reflection of just how deeply we loved, and were loved in return.
I’m endlessly grateful for the dogs who have shared my life and taught me what it means to love unconditionally. If you're a pet lover, this book will move you, make you laugh, and probably make you cry. But more than anything, it will remind you how privileged we are to experience such pure, unwavering love.
Thank you to NetGalley and Mindbuck Media Audio for the audiobook copy.
This is a love story, from a man to his dog, and it is absolutely heartbreaking.
The story of Douglas Green and his dog, Shirelle, feels raw and real. It’s filled with love, frustration, joy, sadness, and so many relatable moments that every dog lover will recognize.
Shirelle is funny, chaotic, sweet, and stubborn, the epitome of a lovable, slightly clueless dog with nothing but love to give. As someone who also owns a not-so-smart but endlessly loving dog, I truly appreciated the blank stares, the tail wags born of pure confusion, and the energy that sends them leaping into (or onto) everything.
What I loved most about this book was how it showcased life lessons throughout. Through heartbreaks, job losses, depression, and moments of self-doubt, Shirelle was always there, tail wagging, grounding her person. The writing is heartfelt and honest, so much so that I could feel Green’s love, pride, and occasional exasperation with his companion.
One of the hardest truths of loving a pet is knowing our lives will almost certainly outlast theirs. It’s a painful inevitability, but it never diminishes the joy, the laughter, or the countless memories they give us. We all grieve differently. Some hold quiet funerals; others, like me, carry a tribute in ink on their skin. However we choose to remember them, that pain is always a reflection of just how deeply we loved, and were loved in return.
I’m endlessly grateful for the dogs who have shared my life and taught me what it means to love unconditionally. If you're a pet lover, this book will move you, make you laugh, and probably make you cry. But more than anything, it will remind you how privileged we are to experience such pure, unwavering love.
Thank you to NetGalley and Mindbuck Media Audio for the audiobook copy.
March 28, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the copy of this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
I came upon this book as a NetGalley “listen now” audiobook. This book was originally published in 2015, but I don’t think it ever got any hype, but I’m glad it crossed my path! It is a beautiful and relatable story of the many lessons the author, Douglas Green, learned from his beloved, late dog, Shirelle.
I would recommend this book to anyone that’s loved and learned from a pet and to any non-pet folks who wants to understand people who love their pets. I found so much of this book to be relatable to the love I feel for my pets - present and past 🥲
Green did an excellent job narrating the audiobook and I loved the sound effects he used.
I came upon this book as a NetGalley “listen now” audiobook. This book was originally published in 2015, but I don’t think it ever got any hype, but I’m glad it crossed my path! It is a beautiful and relatable story of the many lessons the author, Douglas Green, learned from his beloved, late dog, Shirelle.
I would recommend this book to anyone that’s loved and learned from a pet and to any non-pet folks who wants to understand people who love their pets. I found so much of this book to be relatable to the love I feel for my pets - present and past 🥲
Green did an excellent job narrating the audiobook and I loved the sound effects he used.
December 30, 2015
Thank you to netgalley for this arc!
The cover is beautiful, of the author's dog, Shirelle, who he fondly calls various names such as "my little girl"; "my angel"; and, of course, "Knucklehead." Very rarely do you come across a man who loves his dog as much as Doug loved Shirelle. It is an amazing tribute to a well-loved mutt.
Shirelle's story is magical and mystical. You'll see what I mean when you read it. She comes across as being a brat, but she is such a lover. She understood things that human wording could not form. Again, you'll see what I mean when you read this book. The relationship between this man and this dog is just precious, and it's wonderful to be on the outside looking in as you see their life together.
I could have done without all the philosophy and dream bits, and the writing is not stellar, but still, the author is to be admired for the loving home that he made for Shirelle. She sounds like one heck of a companion.
**crossposted to netgalley**
The cover is beautiful, of the author's dog, Shirelle, who he fondly calls various names such as "my little girl"; "my angel"; and, of course, "Knucklehead." Very rarely do you come across a man who loves his dog as much as Doug loved Shirelle. It is an amazing tribute to a well-loved mutt.
Shirelle's story is magical and mystical. You'll see what I mean when you read it. She comes across as being a brat, but she is such a lover. She understood things that human wording could not form. Again, you'll see what I mean when you read this book. The relationship between this man and this dog is just precious, and it's wonderful to be on the outside looking in as you see their life together.
I could have done without all the philosophy and dream bits, and the writing is not stellar, but still, the author is to be admired for the loving home that he made for Shirelle. She sounds like one heck of a companion.
**crossposted to netgalley**
August 27, 2024
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
WHAT'S THE TEACHINGS OF SHIRELLE ABOUT?
I'm just going to go with what's on the author's site:
That penultimate sentence is demonstrably false, but the rest of that gives you a pretty good idea of what to expect from this book.
THE GOOD
Douglas Green truly loved his knuckleheaded canine companion. That is incredibly clear. She was frequently a goof, that's clear, and brought a lot of joy and laughter to Green's life and to those with whom she interacted (mostly).
The parts of the book that were just stories about Shirelle were great and brought several smiles to my face (and I expect the same will be true for many readers). They're relatable, they're fun, they might make you chuckle.
I really appreciated moments like where Green tried to describe things like the joy Shirelle (and just about every dog) expresses when their person returns home. And he's right—why don't we have the same kind of joy for each other? (we could probably express it without the jumping). Many—maybe even most—of the lessons he takes from Shirelle are similarly well-written, well worth the time, and showed the a smilar kind of thinking.
I couldn't help but think about Dave Barry and David Rosenfelt's lessons from their dogs during this time.
Even the parts about Shirelle's medical struggles—that eventually ended—and what Green went through to get her the care she needed were rewarding reading (although by the time we got to that part, a lot of the book fell into what I talk about in the next couple of sections). Her making it through so much was great to see, even as you feel bad that she had to go through it.
THE MEH
I'm going to lump in just about everything that Green puts about his biography, his various jobs, his love life, and his professional and semi-professional pursuits here. I didn't pick up this book to read about Douglas Green, his career in film or stage—or his move into psychotherapy.
When Green wrote about Shirelle in conjunction with this, that really helped—she's why people come to the book after all. Shirelle as an unofficial and untrained therapy dog is the kind of thing readers want to see.
THE BAD
The metaphysical claims that Green makes, the philosophy he espouses, and things along those lines were tiresome, not well conveyed, and typically interfered with the book as a whole. Your results may vary, obviously, but if I want to read about manifesting or things of that nature—I'll go grab Rhonda Byrne's book, not a book about a ridiculous dog.
I'm not entirely sure that those parts of the book were all that internally coherent—I mentally checked out during most of those parts of the book for both of our sakes. That way I wasn't miserable and I wouldn't end up going on an extended diatribe about them. I'm on the verge of that now, however, so I'm going to shut up.
Well, after this one additional note. If you're going to appeal to a term from Christianity (or any other religion) to buttress your point, you should maybe do a quick web search to make sure it means what you think it means. Hint: Christ's "Passion" doesn't come close to contemporary usage of "passion," no matter their etymological link. It's hard to take someone seriously when they do that.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT THE TEACHINGS OF SHIRELLE?
I don't think that Green and I would get along in person (I'd be glad to be given the opportunity to discover otherwise, and the drinks would be on me). I don't think we'd actively dislike each other, but we'd just rub each other the wrong way. Until we started telling stories about the silly balls of fur, energy, and devotion that we share our lives with. Then, I think we'd find some great common ground and probably enjoy the conversation.
I bring that up because I think this book works for me along the same lines. When it's about Shirelle as the animal companion that makes people laugh and/or feel good in other ways, I think the book is at its strongest and most appealing. I'm down for that kind of thing anytime and Green handles it well.
When the book strays from that, it loses me—and the further it strays, the less I care about it and the more I'm going to find things to quibble with.
Are you going to agree with me? I don't know. Are you going to think I'm out to lunch and really jibe with Green and everything he has to say? It's possible.
Either way, if you're a dog-lover—or if you're someone who enjoys reading about dogs. You'll probably be glad you gave this a shot, I am (generally).
Disclaimer: I was provided a copy of this ARC by the author in return for my honest opinion, which he may be rethinking now.
---
WHAT'S THE TEACHINGS OF SHIRELLE ABOUT?
I'm just going to go with what's on the author's site:
“Relish the day. If you’re not in awe, you’re just not paying attention.”
She hadn’t even been in the crowded pound a week, but she’d already developed a nickname, “Knucklehead.” As a puppy she destroyed property and precious clothes; as an adult she injured her owner, ruined romances… and changed the world-views of those around her.
Have you ever watched an animal and wondered how it thinks, how it sees the world, how it views you? And have you ever wondered what wisdom you might learn if you could see things as that animal does?
This unique book is many things: an amusing and moving memoir about a memorable dog, a poetic ode to a human-animal connection, and a serious philosophical, psychological, and spiritual inquiry into the lessons a man gleaned from the simple-minded brilliance of a teacher, a lover, a liver of life to the fullest… a Knucklehead.
That penultimate sentence is demonstrably false, but the rest of that gives you a pretty good idea of what to expect from this book.
THE GOOD
Douglas Green truly loved his knuckleheaded canine companion. That is incredibly clear. She was frequently a goof, that's clear, and brought a lot of joy and laughter to Green's life and to those with whom she interacted (mostly).
The parts of the book that were just stories about Shirelle were great and brought several smiles to my face (and I expect the same will be true for many readers). They're relatable, they're fun, they might make you chuckle.
I really appreciated moments like where Green tried to describe things like the joy Shirelle (and just about every dog) expresses when their person returns home. And he's right—why don't we have the same kind of joy for each other? (we could probably express it without the jumping). Many—maybe even most—of the lessons he takes from Shirelle are similarly well-written, well worth the time, and showed the a smilar kind of thinking.
I couldn't help but think about Dave Barry and David Rosenfelt's lessons from their dogs during this time.
Even the parts about Shirelle's medical struggles—that eventually ended—and what Green went through to get her the care she needed were rewarding reading (although by the time we got to that part, a lot of the book fell into what I talk about in the next couple of sections). Her making it through so much was great to see, even as you feel bad that she had to go through it.
THE MEH
I'm going to lump in just about everything that Green puts about his biography, his various jobs, his love life, and his professional and semi-professional pursuits here. I didn't pick up this book to read about Douglas Green, his career in film or stage—or his move into psychotherapy.
When Green wrote about Shirelle in conjunction with this, that really helped—she's why people come to the book after all. Shirelle as an unofficial and untrained therapy dog is the kind of thing readers want to see.
THE BAD
The metaphysical claims that Green makes, the philosophy he espouses, and things along those lines were tiresome, not well conveyed, and typically interfered with the book as a whole. Your results may vary, obviously, but if I want to read about manifesting or things of that nature—I'll go grab Rhonda Byrne's book, not a book about a ridiculous dog.
I'm not entirely sure that those parts of the book were all that internally coherent—I mentally checked out during most of those parts of the book for both of our sakes. That way I wasn't miserable and I wouldn't end up going on an extended diatribe about them. I'm on the verge of that now, however, so I'm going to shut up.
Well, after this one additional note. If you're going to appeal to a term from Christianity (or any other religion) to buttress your point, you should maybe do a quick web search to make sure it means what you think it means. Hint: Christ's "Passion" doesn't come close to contemporary usage of "passion," no matter their etymological link. It's hard to take someone seriously when they do that.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT THE TEACHINGS OF SHIRELLE?
I don't think that Green and I would get along in person (I'd be glad to be given the opportunity to discover otherwise, and the drinks would be on me). I don't think we'd actively dislike each other, but we'd just rub each other the wrong way. Until we started telling stories about the silly balls of fur, energy, and devotion that we share our lives with. Then, I think we'd find some great common ground and probably enjoy the conversation.
I bring that up because I think this book works for me along the same lines. When it's about Shirelle as the animal companion that makes people laugh and/or feel good in other ways, I think the book is at its strongest and most appealing. I'm down for that kind of thing anytime and Green handles it well.
When the book strays from that, it loses me—and the further it strays, the less I care about it and the more I'm going to find things to quibble with.
Are you going to agree with me? I don't know. Are you going to think I'm out to lunch and really jibe with Green and everything he has to say? It's possible.
Either way, if you're a dog-lover—or if you're someone who enjoys reading about dogs. You'll probably be glad you gave this a shot, I am (generally).
Disclaimer: I was provided a copy of this ARC by the author in return for my honest opinion, which he may be rethinking now.
July 12, 2024
I am a sucker for a story about dogs. Having two of my own, I know the love a dog can bring to our lives.
This was such a fun story to read, from how he found Shirelle to how she got her name and their adventures together. She was there for him in the good times and the bad. There are stories that made me laugh and others that touched my heart. It was easy to think of my two who have passed on and imagine them doing similar things for me. They were truly my heart.
If you are a dog lover, these stories will touch your heart and possibly remind you of a "knucklehead" you had in your life.
We give this book 5 paws up.
This was such a fun story to read, from how he found Shirelle to how she got her name and their adventures together. She was there for him in the good times and the bad. There are stories that made me laugh and others that touched my heart. It was easy to think of my two who have passed on and imagine them doing similar things for me. They were truly my heart.
If you are a dog lover, these stories will touch your heart and possibly remind you of a "knucklehead" you had in your life.
We give this book 5 paws up.
October 26, 2015
I don't even know where to start - I feel like there is a big Shirelle shaped hole in my heart. I knew how the story was going to end from the very first turn of the page, but it is still a shock when it happens. I loved the list of 'teachings' from Shirelle and photographs at the end of the book - summed it all up. I would say that the book needs more focus on the life of Shirelle, as although I loved hearing about the authors life, some of it isn't totally relevant to the growth of Shirelle.
February 16, 2025
If you have the opportunity to read or listen to this book, do it. If you’re a pet person, you’ll love every second of it, even though there will absolutely be some tears. If you aren’t, you will be when you’re finished. There is something that the reciprocal unconditional love of a dog (or your species of brings to us. This is about life, trying to figure out all out, good times and bad all with and through the love of a really good dog. And they’re all good dogs! Douglas takes us through his journey with Shirelle, the “bestest” girl. How his life was shaped with her from the beginning of their relationship and for the rest of her life and beyond. I thought about the two dogs I have spent years with and are gone and their impact on me and those who knew them and now with my newest rescue I look forward to every adventure with her. What they give us, bring to our lives is incalculable. We are everything to them, and they to us. Shirelle was his dog, but most of us have been down a very similar road and fallen head over heels and been forever impacted by the loving fur balls that come into our lives. Yes, so clearly I am a dog parent who would go to the end of the world for mine. My dog is my Shirelle. I wish for everyone to have the experience. It is life changing in the most incredible ways. And loving a dog doesn’t mean being a dog parent. There is fostering, making pals with a neighborhood pup, walking dogs at a shelter, donating time or treats and more. The friendships you’ll make, the empty space in your heart will be filled and life will just be better with them in it. This book exemplifies why even when we willingly go in knowing we will outlive them. They are gone, but the love stays with us forever. There is nothing better.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley.com in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley.com in exchange for a fair and honest review.
July 29, 2024
The Teachings of Shirelle: Life Lessons from a Devine Knucklehead by Douglas Green is a poignant memoir about the author’s relationship with his dog, Shirelle, with an interesting and enlightening forward by an award-willing veterinarian, Dr. Barrie M. Sands. The story takes place in the early 2000's, California.
Douglas Green grew up with dogs and, as an adult, felt something was missing in his life. An author, psychotherapist, plus director and writer of film and theater, he sought a canine companion from area dog shelters. What he found and adopted was a high-energy, orange and white supermutt he named Shirelle.
At first Shirelle was typical puppy, destroying property and clothes. But as she developed, still full of energy, she found her way into the hearts of all who knew her. She made a profound impact on Doug’s well-being and mental health. Although from time to time Doug had girlfriends, he remained single, so Shirelle became his “everything.” Loved and cherished, Shirelle taught Doug how to live life to the fullest, to cherish the moment. She was a valuable addition to his psychotherapy sessions, and made deep connections with many clients.
I’ve had dogs most of my life and appreciate their value to our sense of well-being. The Teachings of Shirelle emphasis the worth of a loyal dog and the comfort a dog can bring into a home. While Douglas kept Shirelle safe, fed, healthy and sheltered, she gave him love, security, and many laughs. I recommend this memoir to anyone who loves dogs or who is thinking about adopting a dog. This book is a guide, not in animal training, but in living life.
January 6, 2026
The Teachings of Shirelle (audiobook)
When I decided to read this book, or rather listen to it, I knew going in that I would probably cry. It seems that when it comes to dogs especially, no truly great story ends without loss. Still, I am so grateful to have gotten to know Shirelle. She was, without question, a very good teacher, and I’m thankful that Douglas Green chose to share her teachings with the world.
This audiobook is narrated by the author, which can be a bit dicey. On the one hand, I like hearing a story exactly the way the author intended it to sound. On the other hand, being a good writer doesn’t automatically make someone a good narrator. Happily, Douglas Green is an excellent narrator, and that made this listening experience a real gift.
I usually listen to audiobooks at double speed, as long as I can still clearly understand the narrator. That was my original plan here as well. But from the very beginning, there was such reverence for Shirelle in the author’s voice that I chose to listen at normal speed instead. It meant this audiobook took me twice as long as usual to finish, and I don’t regret a single minute of that time.
This is a deeply touching, wonderful book. The lessons Green learned from Shirelle are simple, honest, and meaningful. And if we’re all being truthful with ourselves, most of us could probably benefit from a lesson or two in how to be a dog.
When I decided to read this book, or rather listen to it, I knew going in that I would probably cry. It seems that when it comes to dogs especially, no truly great story ends without loss. Still, I am so grateful to have gotten to know Shirelle. She was, without question, a very good teacher, and I’m thankful that Douglas Green chose to share her teachings with the world.
This audiobook is narrated by the author, which can be a bit dicey. On the one hand, I like hearing a story exactly the way the author intended it to sound. On the other hand, being a good writer doesn’t automatically make someone a good narrator. Happily, Douglas Green is an excellent narrator, and that made this listening experience a real gift.
I usually listen to audiobooks at double speed, as long as I can still clearly understand the narrator. That was my original plan here as well. But from the very beginning, there was such reverence for Shirelle in the author’s voice that I chose to listen at normal speed instead. It meant this audiobook took me twice as long as usual to finish, and I don’t regret a single minute of that time.
This is a deeply touching, wonderful book. The lessons Green learned from Shirelle are simple, honest, and meaningful. And if we’re all being truthful with ourselves, most of us could probably benefit from a lesson or two in how to be a dog.
May 21, 2024
This is the love story every dog owner wishes they could write for their canine best friend.
I never read books or watch movies about dogs because let's face it, we all know how they'll end and that's just not how I like to get my entertainment. This book though - the cover must have called to me because I told myself, "You know the dog won't make it" but I needed to read it.
Let me begin by saying that I read it quickly, and although I finished it several days ago, I couldn't write my review. I was feeling more than a little raw. I'll admit the last hour or so of the book had me crying until the end. This author has done such an unbelievably beautiful job of telling us about his dog, Shirelle, that somewhere along the line, the reader feels that we know her too, or maybe she belongs to all of us who read about her. journey. Thank you to Doug Green for loving Shirelle so completely and doing everything you could to not only give her a happy life but also keep her around for as long as you could. Having been lucky enough to have several of the best dogs in the world, I can relate to the utter sorrow of losing these wonderful beasts.
I can't even begin to communicate how much this story has touched me. I'd give it more than 5 stars if I could.
I will warn potential readers by saying there's heartbreak here that may be too visceral to handle, so this might not be the book for you.
I never read books or watch movies about dogs because let's face it, we all know how they'll end and that's just not how I like to get my entertainment. This book though - the cover must have called to me because I told myself, "You know the dog won't make it" but I needed to read it.
Let me begin by saying that I read it quickly, and although I finished it several days ago, I couldn't write my review. I was feeling more than a little raw. I'll admit the last hour or so of the book had me crying until the end. This author has done such an unbelievably beautiful job of telling us about his dog, Shirelle, that somewhere along the line, the reader feels that we know her too, or maybe she belongs to all of us who read about her. journey. Thank you to Doug Green for loving Shirelle so completely and doing everything you could to not only give her a happy life but also keep her around for as long as you could. Having been lucky enough to have several of the best dogs in the world, I can relate to the utter sorrow of losing these wonderful beasts.
I can't even begin to communicate how much this story has touched me. I'd give it more than 5 stars if I could.
I will warn potential readers by saying there's heartbreak here that may be too visceral to handle, so this might not be the book for you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 22, 2025
The Teachings of Shirelle
By: @Douglas Green
What a sweet book. Dog lovers should read this book. Others should too, but definitely dog lovers. It captures the essence of the pure love of the relationship between a dog and its human. It reminded me much of Lessons with Lucy By Dave Barry, but it was different enough to make it worth the read. I loved the little poems about various dog things. They were endearing and made me smile. I chose the audiobook because I wanted to hear the voice of the author, who narrated it. That made it special also, as did the occasional woof. I want to take a look at the digital book also because it has photos.
The only thing I could have done without was the bell that chimed at various points throughout - alot! I'm not sure of the point. Was it to emphasis an important point? If so, it is unnecessary. The points are obvious without a chime. Was it intended to be like a dog training technique? Pavlovian? In any event, it was unnecessary and distracting and retracted from an otherwise lovely book.
I still gave it 5 stars. I need to check out @askshirelle now. Sweet girl.
By: @Douglas Green
What a sweet book. Dog lovers should read this book. Others should too, but definitely dog lovers. It captures the essence of the pure love of the relationship between a dog and its human. It reminded me much of Lessons with Lucy By Dave Barry, but it was different enough to make it worth the read. I loved the little poems about various dog things. They were endearing and made me smile. I chose the audiobook because I wanted to hear the voice of the author, who narrated it. That made it special also, as did the occasional woof. I want to take a look at the digital book also because it has photos.
The only thing I could have done without was the bell that chimed at various points throughout - alot! I'm not sure of the point. Was it to emphasis an important point? If so, it is unnecessary. The points are obvious without a chime. Was it intended to be like a dog training technique? Pavlovian? In any event, it was unnecessary and distracting and retracted from an otherwise lovely book.
I still gave it 5 stars. I need to check out @askshirelle now. Sweet girl.
October 27, 2025
I loved Shirelle, as soon as I saw her beautiful picture. The author, Douglas Green expresses his pure love for Shirelle and all that she had to offer him. She worshipped him back. Dogs just do that. I related so much to this book. I got my first dog ever, 15 years ago, and Jasper is now sick with cancer. I cried when Shirelle’s time came, and I know my own beloved dogs is coming soon as well. It is hard to imagine, but I almost had to put her down a month ago. I cried going to the Vet and was so happy I get to keep him a little longer. I understood how Douglas felt, willing to do anything to help Shirelle. The time is filled with joy and to hear all that Shirelle taught the author is truly heartwarming. Shirelle taught him about living, passion, play, and being there always. If you have a pet, and have lost one, you will get this book so much. Hugs 🤗 and love 💕 forever, sweet, Shirelle 🐾
The only complaint I have was I found the Drum Beat after a Message Distracting.
I will have to look into the website now and find out more lessons Shirelle teaches.
Thank you NetGalley and Mindbuck Media Audio. I always leave reviews of books I read or listen to.
The only complaint I have was I found the Drum Beat after a Message Distracting.
I will have to look into the website now and find out more lessons Shirelle teaches.
Thank you NetGalley and Mindbuck Media Audio. I always leave reviews of books I read or listen to.
March 18, 2025
I listened to this memoir narrated by the author, Douglas Green. There are some cute stories about Green’s relationships with his dogs, mostly Shirelle, who he lived with for 12 years. I also enjoyed the occasional poem, and the descriptions of the play Green directed. Some of the stories were hard to listen to though; they’re certainly not all happy. The author also gets pretty woo-woo towards the end, so brace yourself for that if you don’t share his New Age beliefs.
I’ve read quite a few books in this genre, and for me, this one was just ok. I found stories such as Starter Dog by Rona Maynard and Lessons From Lucy by Dave Barry more moving.
The audiobook production was good, and the author did a fine job with narration. His narration was well-paced and easy to understand, and he conveyed the mood and emotions of each scene effectively. I enjoyed the included music and sound effects, including the gong between stories.
I received a free advanced review copy of the audiobook through NetGalley. I volunteered to provide an honest review.
I’ve read quite a few books in this genre, and for me, this one was just ok. I found stories such as Starter Dog by Rona Maynard and Lessons From Lucy by Dave Barry more moving.
The audiobook production was good, and the author did a fine job with narration. His narration was well-paced and easy to understand, and he conveyed the mood and emotions of each scene effectively. I enjoyed the included music and sound effects, including the gong between stories.
I received a free advanced review copy of the audiobook through NetGalley. I volunteered to provide an honest review.
June 7, 2025
Wow. I really didn't like this one. At about 70% finished, I put it aside for weeks - and it blocked me from reading anything. I was listening to the audiobook. The dog story isn't bad, but whoever thought that the cowbell clang was a GOOD idea between vignettes within a chapter needs to be fired. It is so jarring and unnecessary!! This sound made me angry!!
I really wasn't interested in the author's life story of poor choices, bad romances, searching for jobs, and deaths and illnesses of friends and family. The author is the narrator. I think he needs to hire another narrator and use no bells.
If you are interested in this book, please don't get the audiobook.
There is a section in the middle that gave me high anxiety. Then, the last hour plus made me cry in mutual grief and grief for my former dog. Finally, at the end, he summarizes all the lessons he learned from Shirelle, and it came off like preaching. Yuck.
Alas.. Thank you to Netgalley, Mindbuck Media Audio, and Douglas Green for providing this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
I really wasn't interested in the author's life story of poor choices, bad romances, searching for jobs, and deaths and illnesses of friends and family. The author is the narrator. I think he needs to hire another narrator and use no bells.
If you are interested in this book, please don't get the audiobook.
There is a section in the middle that gave me high anxiety. Then, the last hour plus made me cry in mutual grief and grief for my former dog. Finally, at the end, he summarizes all the lessons he learned from Shirelle, and it came off like preaching. Yuck.
Alas.. Thank you to Netgalley, Mindbuck Media Audio, and Douglas Green for providing this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
March 25, 2025
Great book. The story of Shirelle made me feel somewhat sad in some moments, but the lessons were very insightful. I haven't had many pets, but I have known some similarly silly and excited/eccentric animals, of whom this reminded me, and I miss hanging out with them.
I found it quite funny that profanity in the audiobook from NetGalley was hidden with barks instead of a traditional 'bleep.' I'm not sure whether the flow is similar in other formats, but I found the narrative very well-paced, either way. I understood fairly well how the narrator and various people/animals in his life went about their day-to-day activities, and the sense of tension/emotion was very strong, throughout.
Thank you to Mindbuck Media Audio for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I found it quite funny that profanity in the audiobook from NetGalley was hidden with barks instead of a traditional 'bleep.' I'm not sure whether the flow is similar in other formats, but I found the narrative very well-paced, either way. I understood fairly well how the narrator and various people/animals in his life went about their day-to-day activities, and the sense of tension/emotion was very strong, throughout.
Thank you to Mindbuck Media Audio for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
March 21, 2025
Ok so this is a cute book about a dog and what her human learns about life through her. It's autobiographical that way. I did find it funny that the cuss words were barked out, not bleeped out, but a dog bark sound instead. Silly. Also, not sure how I feel about the gong in between sections. Why was that necessary? It was getting really annoying by the end. The dog sounds absolutely gorgeous and wonderful though. I enjoyed the poems in the book, especially the poem about dog fur everywhere. Having gone through our own dog tumor situation, I definitely felt for the dog and her owner. Some of the book turned into a psychology/sociology lesson. But overall it was a cute book about the impact this dog had on her owner. Pets are very special.
March 5, 2025
This is a story about a guy & his dog.....he was sure a dedicated, good caregiver to his pet! As a dedicated pet owner myself, I found a lot to relate to & could easily picture it in my mind. There were a couple places in the book though.....that I thought he went off onto some sort of odd essay type exploration......kind of got to be like 'rambling on' & I was glad to be done with that. For the most part, it's a good dog story, & of an appropriate length. If you really like dogs, you'll probably enjoy this.
I received a digital ARC of the book from publisher Mindbuck Media/Circuit Breaker Books via NetGalley for review purposes.
I received a digital ARC of the book from publisher Mindbuck Media/Circuit Breaker Books via NetGalley for review purposes.
May 7, 2025
The Teachings of Shirelle is a really beautiful and poignant tale about how profound a bond with a pet can truly be for us. I listened to the audiobook. The narrator had a very smooth voice that was easy to listen to. This story went by fast. I loved hearing about Shirelle and found the origin of her name very interesting. I laughed and I cried. As a lifelong pet lover, I found the author's love for Shirelle to be very relatable. In my house, we refer to our pets as people. Our animal friends and family members truly do have so much to teach us, and this story highlights that. Highly recommend to any dog lovers.
January 22, 2025
Thank you Netgalley, the author, and publisher for the opportunity. Always a sucker for a dog book, that you get caught up in the cute, laughable moments and sometimes miss the lesson. The story is about a rescue dog named Shirelle aka Knucklehead. Shirelle's story is magical and mystical as each dog's story is with the quirks and love that they give to the owners. We can learn so much for our canine companions, and this book shows us the truth of this statement. If you enjoy books about People's Best Friend pick this one up and enjoy.
February 21, 2020
Douglas Green's book is beautiful and heartfelt, a loving story about man and his best friend. There are nuggets of wisdom throughout, and also a lot of humor and warmth. We can learn so much for our canine companions, and this book shows us how true this is.
After I finished, I gave my own two dogs an extra big hug and a nice, long pampering.
After I finished, I gave my own two dogs an extra big hug and a nice, long pampering.
February 28, 2025
I loved listening to this fun and humorous but real tale of the bond between a dog and his owner. I’ve only recently become a dog owner and this was a heartwarming listen! The narration was on point. I would recommend this for anyone that loves dogs!
Thanks to NetGalley and Mindbuck Media Audio for the opportunity to listen to The Teachings of Shirelle in exchange for my honest review!
Thanks to NetGalley and Mindbuck Media Audio for the opportunity to listen to The Teachings of Shirelle in exchange for my honest review!
June 2, 2025
I want to thank Netgalley for the audio version of the book "The Teachings of Shirelle". I love that the author is also the narrator of the book it always adds so much more to hear their inflections. I could relate to much of this book. Having had a dog that was my Shirelle, I could relate to his emotions and actions. I would recommend this book to anyone who has a furry friend.
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